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Clashes in Sao Paulo

Protesters and Brazilian police have clashed in Sao Paulo just hours before the opening match of the World Cup between hosts Brazil and Croatia.

Police fired noise bombs and tear gas to disperse a crowd of about 200 demonstrators angry about government overspending on the event and at least one protestor was arrested.

The protesters were trying to cut off a key avenue leading to the Corinthians Arena where the match will be played on the eastern edge of Sao Paulo,

Much of the rest of Brazil's biggest city and business capital resembled a ghost town during the usual morning rush hour after officials declared a partial holiday to ensure traffic to the stadium would be light.

Many Brazilians are angry over the $11.3 billion spent on hosting the World Cup when basic social services are poorly financed.